Everton Keane As Ever On Burnley Defender

Everton are set to land Burnley defender Michael Keane in a £25m deal, according to the Burnley Express. The fee will set a club record for the Clarets and the transfer is completed on Monday.

It’s been a rollercoaster season for Keane. Despite representing the Republic of Ireland at junior levels, the Stockport-born centre back made his full England debut in Dortmund in March 2017.

With two caps to his name, the 25-year-old is becoming a regular feature of Gareth Southgate’s squads. Russia 2018 is on the cards for the Three Lions and Keane is determined not to miss out.

Moving to Goodison Park gives him experience of European football with the Toffees qualifying for the Europa League.

Keane, originally at Manchester United, saw his stock rise as Burnley retained their Premier League status by turning Turf Moor into a fortress. While they took just seven points on the road, they took 33 at home.

United were the initial pacesetters in the chase for Keane but Everton have been ruthless this summer in the transfer market. Jordan Pickford and Davy Klaessen are already on their way to Finch Farm for pre-season training.

Blues boss Ronald Koeman is determined to challenge for the top four next season, and with the backing of new owner, Farhad Moshiri, is being backed to achieve those aims.